1544

The Italian Wars continue as French king Francis I invades Lombardy in an attempt to reclaim Milan from the Hapsburgs. The French defeat the Imperial Army at the Battle of Ceresole but are unable to seriously threaten Milan, and eventually are forced to withdraw when Holy Roman Emperor Charles V makes a counter-invasion into France from Germany. The resulting stalemate leads to the Peace of Crépy, which temporarily calms things down.

English king Henry VIII makes yet another attempt to expand English holdings in France through war, but this time personally takes command of the troops, leading the successful seige and capture of Boulogne.